Adapters compatible with 50mm Summicron DR

[dpt2014]

I just purchased an X-Pro 1 on a whim (found a great deal) and intend to use it with my DR 'Cron. I was excited until I didn't see this particular lens on Fuji's compatibility chart. It says only V1 and V4 'Crons are compatible, though I've been reading about members successfully using their Rigid 'Crons with the OEM Fuji adapter. But I know the DR 'Cron's rear protrudes, so I'm wondering which adapters work?

So far I've confirmed that Hawk's Helicoid and the Novoflex adapters work with the 50mm DR 'Cron. Are there any other alternatives?

I'm asking because I've already spent more than I wanted to (remember, I bought the camera on a whim) and don't want to invest in either the Hawk or Novoflex adapters right now. I'd be interested if the Fuji OEM adapter works despite the DR 'Cron not being listed (because I've seen the Fuji OEM adapters go for ~$100 used every once in a great while).

TIA!

 

[Phil_F_NM]

Since the Fuji doesn't focus mechanically like the optically focused rangefinders, why not stick the adapter on the lens when the lens is extended out to its close-focus range. This will put the cam follower as far away from the camera body as possible. Then click it over to the normal range and slowly focus the lens towards infinity and see if the cam follower ever protrudes from the back of the adapter. If so, you know that it won't work and you won't have wrecked the inside of your camera.

Phil Forrest

 

[Shac]

the DR works just fine (at least on my NEX) with any LM-Sony adapter. If you want to use the full focus range of the lens - then follow this trick.
Focus to the normal 1 m limit, then pull out and moving the focus ring as if you had the close-up goggles on. The focus ring won't move, but it will if if you depress the ball bearing on the flat area the goggles normally fit onto and while holding it down move the focus ring for a moment - as soon as the focus ring is free, release the ball bearing & you can now focus as close as 19”.

 

[dpt2014]

Since the Fuji doesn't focus mechanically like the optically focused rangefinders, why not stick the adapter on the lens when the lens is extended out to its close-focus range. This will put the cam follower as far away from the camera body as possible. Then click it over to the normal range and slowly focus the lens towards infinity and see if the cam follower ever protrudes from the back of the adapter. If so, you know that it won't work and you won't have wrecked the inside of your camera.

Phil Forrest

I don't yet have an adapter to try this with, but that is exactly what I will do if I don't find an answer here.

the DR works just fine (at least on my NEX) with any LM-Sony adapter. If you want to use the full focus range of the lens - then follow this trick.
Focus to the normal 1 m limit, then pull out and moving the focus ring as if you had the close-up goggles on. The focus ring won't move, but it will if if you depress the ball bearing on the flat area the goggles normally fit onto and while holding it down move the focus ring for a moment - as soon as the focus ring is free, release the ball bearing & you can now focus as close as 19”.

Thanks. AFAIK, there aren't any concerns about compatibility of the DR 'Cron and LM-Sony adapters like there are with LM-Fuji adapters. Supposedly with Fuji adapters the DR 'Cron has the same problem that it does on the M8, the rear protrudes too much.

I've just found some cheaper alternatives to Hawk's helicoid adapter and I think they make be the answer if the standard adapters don't work.

 

[venchka]

Please let us know if the D.R. Summicron works on your X-Pro 1. I am on the fence re: any mirror less digital camera until I know that my D.R. Summicron will function correctly. Buying a cheap adapter to find out if the clearances are ok is a good way to go.
Thanks!

Wayne

 

[dpt2014]

Wayne, the DR 'Cron WILL work on the X-Pro1 and XE-1/2 with either the Novoflex adapter or Hawk's Helicoid adapter. So if being able to use your DR 'Cron is a deal breaker, then rest assured that you can. The caveat is that the two adapters that do work are $200+ USD.

I have coming in on Wednesday (ETA) a RainbowImaging adapter ($17), RainbowImaging Helicoid ($50), and Neewer Helicoid ($43). I am hoping the RainbowImaging and Neewer Helicoids are replicas of Hawk's Helicoid and that they will provide sufficient room for the DR 'Cron. I will report back on Wed/Thurs if everything arrives on time.

 

[venchka]

Many thanks! Standing by...
I reckon that my small assortment of LTM & M lenses are worth $200 if need be. I am also not put off by spending $50 (or less) first. If the budget adapters work, GREAT! If not, I've thrown away more money in my life. Grinning!

Wayne

 

[dpt2014]

Just got an update. XP1 will be here tomorrow, but adapters won't be here until Wednesday. What a TEASE!

 

[dpt2014]

XP1 and Fotasy (sold by Rainbowimaging) adapter have arrived. The DR 'Cron DOES fit, but loosely. 🙁 It's not a secure fit and I wouldn't feel comfortable going out and about shooting this way. It's going back. I should be getting at least one of the two helicoid adapters tomorrow. I'll report back then!

 

[dpt2014]

It is with great regret that I report the Neewer Helicoid works with the DR 'Cron ONLY when it's in its close focus mode. And even at that mode, it is unusable unless you plan on shooting only macro.

I want to try Hawk's helicoid, but I'm hesitant to buy it as it's over 3x the cost ($150) the Neewer helicoid and is unreturnable. I was more than happy to buy the other the adapters because they were fulfilled by Amazon and their return policy is second to none.

That said, the Neewer helicoid is built much nicer than the standard Fotasy adapter. It also fits both my DR 'Cron and 90mm Elmar snugly without any wiggle.

 

[venchka]

What seems to be the problem with adapter & the D.R. Summicron?

Wayne

 

[dpt2014]

Same problem the DR 'Cron has with the M8. When set to infinity, the rear of the DR 'Cron protrudes too far out and cannot physically be mounted on the two helicoids I've tried (Neewer and Rainbowimaging).

The DR 'Cron fits the Fotasy adapter, but the adapter is a loose fit both on the body and the lens. Very wiggly. But it works.

I spoke with Hawk from Hawk's Factory. His eBay ads claim that his helicoid adapter will work with the DR 'Cron in both close range and infinity. I bought one. We'll see. I'm doubtful based on my limited success, but I hope I'm wrong as I just spent $150 on it.

 

[dpt2014]

Score! Just got my helicoid adapter from Hawk's Factory (seller was based in Irvine, CA and is Hawk's official US distributor) and am happy to report that it DOES WORK with the DR 'Cron...like a DREAM! I've now been through 3 RainbowImaging adapters (all work with the DR 'Cron, but all fit very loosely on both the camera and lens ends so there was a lot of wiggle room), two off-brand helicoids, and Fuji's own official LM-FX adapter. The Fuji build quality was great, no arguing that. And the quick access button was a nice feature. But having an adapter that is compatible with all M mount lenses triumphs that. The Hawk adapter is also very well built. No loose end, nice snug fit. Also has a built in focus tab for macro focusing.

Worth the $150, IMO!

 

[venchka]

Score! Just got my helicoid adapter from Hawk's Factory (seller was based in Irvine, CA and is Hawk's official US distributor) and am happy to report that it DOES WORK with the DR 'Cron...like a DREAM! I've now been through 3 RainbowImaging adapters (all work with the DR 'Cron, but all fit very loosely on both the camera and lens ends so there was a lot of wiggle room), two off-brand helicoids, and Fuji's own official LM-FX adapter. The Fuji build quality was great, no arguing that. And the quick access button was a nice feature. But having an adapter that is compatible with all M mount lenses triumphs that. The Hawk adapter is also very well built. No loose end, nice snug fit. Also has a built in focus tab for macro focusing.

Worth the $150, IMO!

It was the best of news. It was the worst of news.
Best news: My D.R. Summicron can be used on the Fuji cameras.
Worst news: Which retirement account do I rob?
thanks for your efforts. I really appreciate the good news. Samples to follow? Please?

Wayne

 

[dpt2014]

Hi Wayne

Glad I could be of help. Now to return all the adapters that don't work as I've currently got quite a bit of money tied up in them that's just waiting to be set free.

I picked up the adapter from the post office this morning 20 minutes before work. I got a few quick test shots to make sure everything works. And it does. The DR 'Cron focuses from close range all the way to infinity without any problems. It's awesome! I'll post a review/samples as soon as I can, but it may be a couple days delayed as the recent snow Chicago got has set me back with some personal issues that need immediate attention.

 

[venchka]

Hi Wayne

Glad I could be of help. Now to return all the adapters that don't work as I've currently got quite a bit of money tied up in them that's just waiting to be set free.

I picked up the adapter from the post office this morning 20 minutes before work. I got a few quick test shots to make sure everything works. And it does. The DR 'Cron focuses from close range all the way to infinity without any problems. It's awesome! I'll post a review/samples as soon as I can, but it may be a couple days delayed as the recent snow Chicago got has set me back with some personal issues that need immediate attention.

No worries. Take your time. I still have to float a "Continuing Budget Resolution" past the Minister of the Treasury & Keeper of the Purse Strings. Know what I mean? 😎

Wayne